Mojojoy is the name of larvae of different palm weevils found in the Amazon region of Colombia, eaten as food and are known as a pest for various palm species.[1]InPeru, it is known as suriorcocotero.[2] The flavor has had different descriptions including resembling the taste of hazelnutorbutter.[2] It is also considered a sustainable food source.[2]
Rhynchophorus ferrugineus larvae
| |
| Place of origin | Colombia, Peru |
|---|---|
| Region or state | Amazon |
| Main ingredients | beetle larvae |
They are the larvae of Ancognatha scarabaeoides[3] and Rhynchophorus palmarum[4] which are considered pests that can attack crops, destroying them partially or totally, or affecting them from the root.[1] The weevils burrow into the aguaje tree, lays eggs, and after hatching, the grubs feed on the oily bark.[2] It is speculated that the fatty flavor comes from this.[2]
It can be eaten alive or prepared by different methods of cooking; most commonly they are roastedorfried, grilled on a skewer, or stuffed with beef, chickenorfish.[1][4][5] To eat raw, the head, pincers, and intestines are removed and the contents are sucked out.[2] It can be prepared in the anticucho style, which is grilling after marination. Chicharrón de suri is a dish where the grubs are seasoned with salt and garlic, then fried with green plantains.[2]
The larvae are a good source of protein, vitamins A and E, and beta-carotene.[2]
